CARIGARA, Leyte – Mayor Eduardo Ong Jr. here expressed support to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) community during the Pride March and Concert in this town on Friday, June 30. “You don’t have to be a gay or lesbian to show your support to the LGBT community. This event is a reminder that someone out there loves you and supports you," Ong said. "Karawat ka ha Carigara" (You are accepted in Carigara) is the largest pride event in the province of Leyte organized by the local government of Carigara. Now in its second year, the event aims to promote awareness on the rights and openness of the members of the LGBTQIA+ community. "This year, we're still going to promote inclusivity. We're still going to continue to promote love and show our support to the LGBTQ community," Ong said. The mayor said people have opposed and even attempted to have the event canceled. "For me, people who do not accept others for who they truly are are more immoral...This event is a statement of how far we've come," Ong said. "Just like the rest of the country, there's no upfront discrimination here in Carigara. However, we're not yet 100 percent open. That is why we came up with these activities to achieve that." The LGU also provided a space for LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs to sell and promote their products. A freedom booth was also set up for everyone to express their feelings during the event.